care committee

Your Compassion, Their Comfort

Are you looking for a way to make a tangible difference in the lives of others? Do you have a heart for service and a willingness to lend a helping hand? Our CARE Committee is in need of compassionate individuals like you to serve as the backbone of our church's support network.


What You'll Do

  • Funeral Receptions: Help organize and host receptions following funeral services, offering a comforting space for grieving families and friends.
  • Medical Rides: Provide essential transportation to medical appointments for those who are unable to drive themselves.
  • Meal Arrangements: Coordinate and deliver meals to members who are recovering from surgery, illness, or other life events.


Why Join the CARE Committee?

  • Immediate Impact: Your service directly benefits those in need, offering immediate comfort and support.
  • Community Connection: Build deeper relationships within our church family while serving others.
  • Flexible Involvement: Whether you can commit to regular service or occasional help, every contribution makes a difference.


Become part of the Team Today!

shepherd's fold

There is a segment of our congregation that we do not see in our sanctuary Sunday after Sunday.  These are the people who, due to failing health or age, must remain at home.  This group includes former choir members, ministers, Sunday School teachers, United Methodist Women leaders, United Methodist Men founders to name a few.  Our ministry of the Good Shepherd includes groups of workers with the purpose of remembering and ministering to these members.


Visitors are asked to establish a relationship with their assigned homebound person and visit as often as is comfortable for both.  Once a month is suggested.  Visitors are asked to call to the attention of the ministers and/or the coordinator any problems and concerns relating to the church, or requests of the “friend at home.”   Flower arrangements made from the altar flowers are usually available to be taken to members in the hospital or to “friends at home” by 10:30 a.m. on Mondays.  


If you are interested in this ministry, contact Rev. Meghan Roth Clayton at (757) 229-1771 Ext 357 or mclayton@williamsburgumc.org.

stephen ministry

What is Stephen Ministry?

Stephen Ministry is a specialized ministry within our congregation that trains and empowers lay members to provide one-on-one, confidential, Christ-centered care to individuals facing various life challenges. Whether it's the loss of a loved one, a difficult transition, or a prolonged period of stress, our Stephen Ministers are here to offer emotional and spiritual support.

  • A Stephen Minister is more than just a sympathetic ear; they are a compassionate, trained individual committed to walking alongside you during your time of need. Each Stephen Minister:

    • Is a dedicated member of our congregation, selected for their caregiving gifts.
    • Has undergone 50 hours of rigorous training in emotional and spiritual caregiving.
    • Offers a listening ear, a caring heart, and a shoulder to lean on.
    • Commits to meeting with their care receiver for about an hour each week, for as long as the need persists.

  • Life is full of ups and downs, and sometimes, the challenges can feel overwhelming. Stephen Ministers provide the emotional and spiritual support necessary to navigate these difficult times. Your struggles do not have to be faced alone; our Stephen Ministers are here to be the embodiment of Christ's love and care.

  • Stephen Ministry is built on trust. All caregiving relationships are confidential, ensuring that your personal experiences and feelings will be handled with the utmost respect and discretion.

  • Stephen Ministry is a collective effort, and there are several ways you can be a part of this transformative ministry:

    • Pray: Uphold our Stephen Ministry in your prayers, asking God to bring healing and hope to those in need.
    • Receive Care: Don't hesitate to seek support from a Stephen Minister during your own times of difficulty.
    • Refer Others: If you know someone who could benefit from Stephen Ministry, encourage them to take this important step.

DO YOU FEEL CALLED TO STEPHEN MINISTRY?


Are you passionate about helping others through difficult times? If so, we invite you to consider joining our upcoming 50-hour Stephen Ministry training class. This class is a joint initiative involving members from our congregation as well as other Stephen Ministry churches in the Williamsburg area.


Key Details:

  • Time: Tuesday evenings

  • Dates: Mid-January to Mid-May 2024

  • Application Deadline: December 15, 2023


In this comprehensive program, you'll be equipped to offer one-on-one support to those experiencing challenging life situations. Upon completion, you'll become a certified Stephen Minister, empowered to make a lasting difference in the lives of others.


How to Apply:

Please click the link below to indicate your interest in taking part in this transformative experience. We strongly encourage early submissions as space is limited.


APPLY FOR A SPOT IN CLASS


Extending the Reach of Pastoral Care


While our pastors will always be at the forefront of crisis care, the needs of our community often exceed what they can provide alone. Stephen Ministry is a biblical solution to this challenge, multiplying the impact of pastoral care by equipping lay members to join in this essential work.


Stephen Ministers extend the reach of our pastoral care, serving both members of our congregation and the wider community. They are the hands and feet of Christ, reaching out in love to those who are hurting.


I'D LIKE TO GET INVOLVED WITH THIS MINISTRY


Recovery and Family Support: 

AA and Al-Anon Meetings

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Meetings at Williamsburg United Methodist Church

We understand the journey to recovery is a challenging yet transformative experience. To serve our community and be a beacon of hope, Williamsburg United Methodist Church is honored to provide space for Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings Monday through Friday at 12:00 PM.


Our doors are open to anyone seeking solace, recovery, or a path to a better life. We offer a welcoming and secure space where all attendees can share their experiences and challenges, free from judgment. Rest assured, we are deeply committed to preserving the confidentiality and privacy essential to the AA program.


We believe in the strength of community support, and we extend our love and prayers to all who participate in these sessions. You're not alone, and at Williamsburg United Methodist Church, you'll always find a compassionate community that stands with you.

Al-Anon Meetings at Williamsburg United Methodist Church

Navigating life with a loved one who is struggling with alcoholism is a unique and often isolating challenge. At Williamsburg United Methodist Church, we're committed to being a sanctuary of understanding and emotional safety. We are pleased to offer space for Al-Anon meetings every Thursday at 2:00 PM to provide support for families and friends of alcoholics.


Here, you will find a comforting environment where you can openly discuss your experiences, fears, and feelings. Rest assured, confidentiality is a cornerstone of our Al-Anon gatherings, and we diligently protect the privacy of all attendees.